New role to help protect vulnerable adults in Rochdale

Claire Ousey appointed as Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust’s Adult Safeguarding Lead for Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale

A dedicated nurse who will be responsible for the health, wellbeing and safety of vulnerable adults has been appointed in Rochdale.

Claire Ousey has been appointed as Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust’s Adult Safeguarding Lead for Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale community services and will be responsible for designing and delivering safeguarding adult training to Pennine Care staff.

Claire will also join the Child Safeguarding Lead, Alison Kelly, and other agencies such as Rochdale Council, the police, domestic violence and drug and alcohol specialists to identify vulnerable adults and help potential victims of exploitation.

Claire, who comes from a mental health nursing background, said: “The key to safeguarding is early intervention and prevention. Staff training and support will be a vital aspect of my role, as our busy healthcare staff are essential in helping us identify and protect people who are vulnerable and potentially at risk.

“This makes Pennine Care a valuable partner in protecting vulnerable adults and allows us to work closely with other organisations locally, share information and take action quickly.”

The new role highlights Pennine Care’s commitment to safeguarding and ensuring staff have the education, support and leadership necessary to fulfil their duties to safeguard and protect.